Puss in Boots

Puss in Boots is possibly one of the lesser known pantomimes we see presented! Making it a new challenge for Director, Rodney Gifford and his cast of ‘new blood'. Great to see a company looking to the future! G&S MCS poured in every element expected in a traditional family pantomime into Puss in Boots from the slapstick to the hiss and boo! Slime (Matthew Maisey) was one of the first to appear and quickly established himself as Mr Evil setting the bar for the rest of the company and what was to be a magical evening. Two of the ‘new bloods’ were James Newton playing the Queen. James gave the Queen a soft soporific voice and matched it with an air of superiority ever ready to put down his partner the classic bumbling King (Peter Fernandez) they were a perfect pairing, both at ease with their audience and they with them.

This production was bursting with talented young performers making their pantomime debut! Puss (Kate Hatt) was a strong ever present sidekick to Colin and excelled in ‘Don’t Stop Me Know. Providing the love interest were besotted thigh slapping! Principal Boy, Colin (Georgia Wall) and the feisty Princess Marigold (Bethany Baker) not to slushy! And a comfortable match vocally. Choreography was innovative incorporating many different genres of dance and there were some extremely talented dancers performing. In contrast the musical element of the production was weak and the ensemble singing was thin! Costumes were stunning, especially the Queen’s Hunting Outfit! Well done to all who brought this magical quest to life.

Trudy Dyke   

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